Nadal backs `perfect` Zidane as Real’s new head

Johannesburg, Jan.7 (ANI): Real Madrid fan Rafael Nadal has extended his support over the appointment of new manager Zinedine Zidane, saying that he deserves to lead one of the most important clubs in the world.

Zidane was named as Real manager after Rafael Benitez was sacked after just seven months in charge due to the side’s recent slump in form in the La Liga.

Describing Zidane as a `humble` personality, the 14-time Grand Slam champion said that Real have got a perfect person to manage the club, Sport24 reported.

The Spaniard, however, expressed his disappointment over the dismissal of Benitez, saying that it would be tough for him to start with a new project.

Earlier, Zidane’s appointment had received flurry of doubts over the Frenchman’s lack of experience.

Spain’s most read sports daily, Marca, wrote that although Zidane was a great football legend for Real, his coaching experience was inversely proportional to his experience as a footballer.

Former Bayern Munich manager Ottmar Hitzfeld had also lashed out at Real for appointing the French great as their new manager and described the decision as ‘insane’.

The 32-time Spanish champions failed to take advantage of the lead and slipped four points adrift of local rivals Atletico Madrid at the top of La Liga following their 2-2 draw in the tournament clash against Valencia. (ANI)